off-road.cc

The LEM Flow is a very well priced trail or enduro helmet with plenty of coverage, adjustment and interior padding. Out on the trail, it was comfortable, if a little warm at times.

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With 16 vents that are claimed to offer 'large intake’, I hoped the Flow would be cooler than I suspected it would be. The vents are well placed, but I was surprised by the sweat build up I had using it - I think this is in part to the full front interior coverage of the padding, which is quite thick. 

Whilst this makes the helmet comfy to wear, it does seem to add a degree of extra insulation in use. Additionally, there is a bug mesh in two of the vents, which will limit airflow - this mesh isn't on the central or far left and right vents, so in some ways, it felt superfluous.

With a multi-position visor, that is indexed and easily removed, the Flow looks quite rounded in shape and style, as opposed to other more contemporary helmets. I think the shape of the vents could be a little more open, to better allow airflow in and around.  It does offer a good amount of coverage, and the plastic shell fully wraps into the helmet interior, which helps protect the foam from damage and scuffs. 

The retention system is comfortable and it didn’t highlight any pressure points or create any sore spots. The helmet should fit a range of head sizes, with the adjustable back, and dial that holds the helmet around the head, and follows the common style of turning to tighten. It's a simple design that's robust and again well padded - the upshot of the extra and plentiful padding is a higher comfort level - even if a little warm at times.

The Flow is sometimes a little hot for longer climbs and more suited for trail loops and‘enduro’ stop/start type riding. It is comfortable and whilst I liked the lightweight style straps, I found they got twisted easier than others for some reason. I liked the pull tab to help make doing the strap up easier.

Despite looking quite bulky and a touch heavy in its looks, it feels light when wearing, and the removable, adjustable peak will be a bonus to some, but looks better on. I think the peak could have been a little wider, to add extra shelter on the left and right extremities.

You can’t go much wrong with the Flow, it offers a decent amount of protection, the price is economical, and there are a wide range of colourways to pick from. There are better, more ventilated helmets at this price point, which does compromise the Flow.

• www.lemhelmets.eu

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